QRL Statement - Mal Meninga

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The Queensland Rugby League would like to formally congratulate Mal Meninga on his appointment today as Head Coach of the Australian Kangaroos.

While disappointed to be farewelling a person and coach of his calibre, Meninga leaves with the QRL’s blessing following a decade of dominance at the helm of the XXXX Maroons.

QRL Managing Director Robert Moore said the coveted Kangaroos role presented an exciting opportunity for Meninga.

“Mal is without doubt the best man for this position and I am convinced he has the skill, knowledge and passion to lift the Kangaroos to the top of international rugby league once more,” Moore said.

“We understand there will be intense speculation regarding his successor, but right at this point we believe the focus should be on celebrating Mal’s extraordinary achievements with the Queensland State of Origin team and our extensive rugby league programs.”

Meninga assumed control of the Maroons in 2006 following three successive series losses to the Blues.

Against the odds, Queensland rallied in the dying minutes of the final match in Melbourne to record a 2-1 series victory.

It marked the start of the most dominant period in Origin history in which the record-breaking Maroons won eight series in a row between 2006 and 2013.

With a record of 20 wins from 30 matches, QRL Chairman Peter Betros said Meninga would be remembered as one of the greatest Origin coaches of all time.

“Even throughout this unparalleled success, the Maroons squad have remained humble and accessible to the people of Queensland,” Betros said.

“This is testament to the culture and spirit that Mal has created within the group. He has been so much more than a rugby league coach and I’m certain his legacy will inspire our state for many more years to come.

“He leaves with the game in Queensland in great shape. On behalf of the QRL and all Queensland fans, we say thank you Mal for your services to the Maroons and we wish you the very best with the Kangaroos.”